What We Do - Genetic Research
Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) is a world-leading independent research institute dedicated to discovering how to prevent or treat birth defects and diseases such as cancer, epilepsy, and a range of genetic disorders.
CMRI has around a hundred scientists and research students, working in teams that focus on four main areas of research: embryonic development and birth defects, cancer, nerve cell signalling, and gene therapy. In addition, CMRI operates CellBank Australia™, Australia’s only national repository of cell cultures available to the entire research community, and a major Biomedical Proteomics facility that will help develop improved medicines.
CMRI has a long record of achievements that have made a lasting difference to the health of our nation. Our early work greatly increased the survival rate of premature babies, pioneered microsurgery, and introduced vaccines that protect against potentially fatal childhood diseases. All of these advances are now part of our healthcare system, and will continue benefiting Australians far into the future.
One in twenty Australian children is born with a congenital abnormality or genetic disease, so there is so much more that needs to be done. CMRI researchers are now working towards new treatments for some particularly aggressive types of cancers. We are developing cures for various forms of inherited liver disease, which we expect will enter clinical trials in a few years. We are designing new types of epilepsy treatment. Many of the diseases we work on affect young and old alike, so our research has the potential to improve the health and well being of all Australians and people around the world.
This is meticulous, painstaking and costly work, but the rewards are beyond measure.
CMRI is a community-based, independent organisation that has enjoyed and relied upon the generous support of the Australian community ever since it was founded more than 50 years ago. The advances we have made would not otherwise have been possible.